and as rosa parks said, it is just time. from africa to europe to asia, our dysfunctional immigration system is a disincentive to the best and brightest worldwide from coming to our great country. we throw talent away. we tear families apart. we show disregard for those trying to live the american dream. for far too long, we have put off comprehensive immigration reform, but now we are taking up the opportunity to do something about it. and we cannot let this moment pass. it is in that spirit that we hold today's discussion. we will not wait any longer. we have to continue strengthening our border, but we will act on comprehensive immigration reform without delay. we will crack down on employers, but we will make sure there is a pathway to citizenship for those who are here through no fault of their own and we will fulfill our heritage as a nation of immigrants and a nation of laws. justice, compassion and equal protection are our common cause. we have an opportunity to embrace the dinism that immigrants bring to our country